Frank's 818R build

[Pearldrummer7]

Actually my question would be "did you see how close to the hood the arms are?" Would the hood collapse on the arms at highway speed? 2 questions, sorry. :)

It very well might. I will be lowering it for transport and returning it to "street height" just for the inspection. Then of course removing it for any street driving. If I need windshield wipers I'm already in such big trouble in this car that seeing will be on the back burner :)


Be carefull with this, panel edges are there for rigidity... If you cut it, you'll need a brace under for sure

Agreed. This could be structurally compromising. Why I said I wouldn't go for it!

[AgentH]

Sigh.

So the NYS DMV is "3 weeks behind, at least" on home made vehicle applications. Considering I had to snowblow the driveway this morning in upstate NY, 3 weeks (at least) from now might be too late. I'm considering holding off on street legality for this season and re prepping the car for the track, with street legality taking a back burner spot until either right after the spring thaw or late next season (don't want to miss any prime track time).

:( bummed

So what's in store for this racing season? What do you plan to do to the car?

[Pearldrummer7]

So what's in store for this racing season? What do you plan to do to the car?

I'm glad you asked! I plan to pull the motor and tranny over winter...motor to do cam seals, replace a fuel line that I don't like, timing, oil pan/pick up tube, and maybe more. Transmission leaks at the case halves so that needs to be buttoned up.

Then, figuring out an intercooler solution and lots of aero (wing, vents, splitter, etc.). Also mounting suspension in R height.

Should be a decently busy winter. Plus I spend the month of March in Asia for work, so it has to be nearly done for track time in April!

[Pearldrummer7]

Ever have one of those times where you work really hard for no reason at all?

Due to the DMV saying they're gonna drag their feet, I said "screw it; let me pull the engine and trans and fix them before I get my appointment)". So I started taking the car apart, all day Wednesday and Thursday (had our Thanksgiving last weekend):

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5655/23337629031_953d0709d3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Bygs3k)

Then, Friday morning, the DMV called me and said "get ready, you'll have an appointment in the next few weeks."


So, I started putting the car back together. It comes apart a lot faster than it goes together. Total waste of 2 days off and a weekend.

[Tamra]

You know, if you wouldn't have torn the car apart they would never have given you an appointment ;p Go Figure !

Congrats anyway on getting scheduled!

[Hindsight]

Woah the DMV CALLED you? I've never heard of a DMV calling someone. Usually you call them and wait on hold for an hour :eek:

[Pearldrummer7]

You know, if you wouldn't have torn the car apart they would never have given you an appointment ;p Go Figure !

Congrats anyway on getting scheduled!
That's exactly right! Thanks haha



Woah the DMV CALLED you? I've never heard of a DMV calling someone. Usually you call them and wait on hold for an hour :eek:

Yes they did. Also he gave me a hard time about a bunch of things, including padded window visors. I guess there's no way around that one. Has anyone installed them? A quick search gave me no results.

[Hobby Racer]

NYS DMV can be funny. When I took in my FFR Cobra I did not even have visors installed and it passed no problem. However I was prepared. I had some home made visors with thick fabric as padding in the trunk!

Look in the Cobra section for guidance on NYS inspections.

[Pearldrummer7]

NYS DMV can be funny. When I took in my FFR Cobra I did not even have visors installed and it passed no problem. However I was prepared. I had some home made visors with thick fabric as padding in the trunk!

Look in the Cobra section for guidance on NYS inspections.

Weird, isn't it?

Hobby Racer- you're in Syracuse? I'm in Oswego. I see your next car is an 818R. If you ever want to check mine out let me know. I'd also love to see your roadster at some point!

[Hobby Racer]

Hobby Racer- you're in Syracuse? I'm in Oswego. I see your next car is an 818R. If you ever want to check mine out let me know. I'd also love to see your roadster at some point!

I hope to order the 818R this winter. I'd love to see your 818R this spring. We can meet up some place and I can bring the Cobra.

[C.Plavan]

I hope to order the 818R this winter. I'd love to see your 818R this spring. We can meet up some place and I can bring the Cobra.

Save the hassle and buy my R :).

[Pearldrummer7]

Save the hassle and buy my R :).

And then sell me the wing and side scoops off of it ;)



I hope to order the 818R this winter. I'd love to see your 818R this spring. We can meet up some place and I can bring the Cobra.

Awesome! That'd be great. Cobras have always been on my to-build list.

[Hobby Racer]

Save the hassle and buy my R :).

Deliver the the East Coast? :)

[Pearldrummer7]

Deliver the the East Coast? :)

Road trip! Chad if you trailer it out here you can grab a track day in my R with me. Help me dial it in.

[C.Plavan]

Road trip! Chad if you trailer it out here you can grab a track day in my R with me. Help me dial it in.

Since it cost me $1700 in gas to tow from CA to Circuit of the Americas for a race, shipping by truck is the only way. It would be easy- I would put it S height and load the coilovers for height. Boom- done.

[Hindsight]

Consider this: If you bought a new R, you'd have to pay for shipping too. I can't remember what I paid but it was around $1500 or so to get my kit to Atlanta. Guessing you'd pay about the same or a little less to get a completed rolling, driving car from California to the East coast.

[Pearldrummer7]

Since it cost me $1700 in gas to tow from CA to Circuit of the Americas for a race, shipping by truck is the only way. It would be easy- I would put it S height and load the coilovers for height. Boom- done.

It was just a joke; shipping truck is much cheaper of course.


Consider this: If you bought a new R, you'd have to pay for shipping too. I can't remember what I paid but it was around $1500 or so to get my kit to Atlanta. Guessing you'd pay about the same or a little less to get a completed rolling, driving car from California to the East coast.

That's true. A friend of mine picked it up with me; it was ~$300 for gas/food/tolls, since people like me and Hobby Racer are a day trip away from FFR.

[Hobby Racer]

That's true. A friend of mine picked it up with me; it was ~$300 for gas/food/tolls, since people like me and Hobby Racer are a day trip away from FFR.

Yeah, I picked up my Cobra kit and plan on doing the same for the 818R. Plus building the car is part of the fun.

[Pearldrummer7]

THEY CALLED ME! I'm heading down to the inspection station on Tuesday of next week. Said it should only take an hour.... I'm SO EXCITED!

[Tamra]

Congrats and good luck!!! What's left to do before then?

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats and good luck!!! What's left to do before then?

Well, some "put it back together" from my over zealous weekend. Some wiring, padded sun visors, all the fluids again, and putting the seats back in. Not sure I should even bother with the second one honestly.

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Good luck Frank
it took me 3 visits to State Trooper.
inspection (fail bumpers)
Inspection (passed bumpers)
Installed VIN plates
First visit conversation was "Yes Sir, No Sir". By the third visit it was "How you doing, how are the wife and kids"
Bob

[Mechie3]

Is cardboard padded enough?

[Pearldrummer7]

Good luck Frank
it took me 3 visits to State Trooper.
inspection (fail bumpers)
Inspection (passed bumpers)
Installed VIN plates
First visit conversation was "Yes Sir, No Sir". By the third visit it was "How you doing, how are the wife and kids"
Bob
Bob- from what I hear, I expect to go 2-3 times total. Thanks for the good luck wishes!



Is cardboard padded enough?

I haven't asked, but I have a feeling it isn't haha. I'm buying some crappy used ones and I'm going to slap them on.

Or I could pull them off of my 90's Ford tow vehicle....

[Pearldrummer7]

Just cracked my windshield, and my appointment is tomorrow :(

Going to call them at 8:30 and see what they say about me coming anyway, since this isn't my state examination (just the homemade vehicle inspection).

[Pearldrummer7]

Update- they'll let me slide on the cracked windshield tomorrow! Currently packing up the truck and doing last minute changes to the car. Whew; there's a ton to do!

She's almost ready!!
http://i.imgur.com/SyTBUte.jpg

[Pearldrummer7]

Here now, in the pouring rain, with a cracked windshield. They don't let you watch the inspection!?!? :O

So I'm in the waiting room. Has it been 30 mins yet??

[Mitch Wright]

Good Luck

[Tamra]

They don't let you watch?!? I hope they aren't going to drive it if so.

Good luck!

[flynntuna]

The inspectors name wasn't Ferris Bueler was it? :rolleyes:

[Pearldrummer7]

I hope they don't want to drive it, because I have the key in my hand :)

[Pearldrummer7]

I HAVE A VIN!!

Details when I get home and unload the car

[Tamra]

Congrats!!!

[David Hodgkins]

I HAVE A VIN!!

Details when I get home and unload the car

Woop Woop!!

:)

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats!!!


Woop Woop!!

:)

Thanks guys!

So, story time:

I got there (in the rain, naturally) about 20 minutes early, and they said to unload and come right around back. I pulled into the garage bay where they do inspections. We went through receipts first (no problems at all there), and then they told me to go to the waiting room. I was shocked that I couldn't watch the procedure.

So about 20 minutes later they came to the little service window and told me to come to the garage. Guy goes "only one issue..." and I cringed, thinking of the number of things it could be and he says "where do you want the VIN sticker? We usually put it on the door jam and you don't have doors"

Now that's my kind of problem :) I packed up and headed home and unloaded everything. Painless, easy, and if it weren't for the rain I would say pleasant, too. I highly recommend the Syracuse Field Inspection station if you're anywhere near it. They really seemed like they wanted to pass the car.


Now...onto insurance!

[Canadian818]

Congrats! Much easier than you expected.

[mikeb75]

Nice problem to have!

[AZPete]

Congrats! And, I enjoyed your exciting story . . . "only one issue".

[Frank818]

Hurray!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Pearldrummer7]

Thanks all!

I'm going to get it inspected tomorrow (if it doesn't pour...forecast is 50/50 right now). After inspection, all I'll need is insurance! Which it seems will have to wait till I'm 25 (March). But! This will mean I can start taking the car apart as soon as I'm back home from Christmas! (Taking a week to visit family)

[Pearldrummer7]

Check it out! She's inspected. Insurance is the only thing standing between me and plates.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5818/24071064585_db7c12e805_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CF5uSV)

He even let me drive the whole rig in so I didn't have to unload in the rainy snow.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1695/23444271793_5f943819fb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BHG2dD)

Although it's 35* and rainy/slushy, this "warm" weather has been amazing for me getting this car on the road. If I could find some liability-only coverage tomorrow I would have plates this year! But it might just be an "in Spring" thing.

[Tamra]

Congrats! When is your birthday? I can't remember, did you try reaching out to our insurance guy, Keith? His email is keith@scmins.com. See if he can help you out.

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats! When is your birthday? I can't remember, did you try reaching out to our insurance guy, Keith? His email is keith@scmins.com. See if he can help you out.

I did. 25 :( like everyone else. It's in March, but I'm in Asia for that whole month almost. So when I come back!

[Mitch Wright]

Congratulations

[Santiago]

Woo-hoo!! Congratulations! Must feel really good...[I wouldn't know...]

Best,
-j

[Pearldrummer7]

I've been fairly sick recently, so progress has been all but nonexistant. However, I went into the garage today and saw an out-of-place puddle that wasn't there Sunday (I cleaned the garage floor)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1562/23847858179_4ed3b21e46_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CkmvoB)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1523/24189606756_e8888f3002_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CRy4ks)


My strut is leaking!? Wtf?! Anyone run into this or know what to do? Car hasn't been actually driven except around the driveway in almost 3 months, and it just started leaking.

[Tamra]

Wow, blown shock already. That's crazy! I would contact FFR and see if there is any sort of warranty on the Konis. If FFR doesn't offer anything, try Koni directly. They are great to work with.

[Pearldrummer7]

Wow, blown shock already. That's crazy! I would contact FFR and see if there is any sort of warranty on the Konis. If FFR doesn't offer anything, try Koni directly. They are great to work with.

And the other side isn't leaking at all. Makes me think I might've gotten a defect one? I plan to take it off an examine it and then call FFR and see what they say :)

[RetroRacing]

Koni is great to work with, I had a new strut shear of at the top mount while going through turn 8 at Pacific (got to watch the whole wheel, brake and lower control arm fly overtop the car and into the wood:eek:) Sent them pictures of it, and they replaced the strut no charge, which is all one could expect. Turned out to be a metal issue with the casting.
Scary thing, if it would have let go 2 turns later, I would not be here.....

[Frank818]

Certainly a defect one, happened to me long time ago after purchasing a new set on all 4 corners, after a few months one of the fronts leaked. Wasn't Koni but it's just to say it's certainly a defect one and I wouldn't worry, as long as you don't race it!

[Pearldrummer7]

Finally got around to calling FFR on this. 5 minutes, tops, and they had a new one coming to me :) these guys rock!

[Pearldrummer7]

Cool little accolade for the fellow Redditors out there. My car is the Featured Ride of the Week on /r/autos!

https://www.reddit.com/r/Autos/comments/4130qi/featured_ride_of_the_week_ucooltrainer_frank_818r/

[Pearldrummer7]

Okay! I've been sick for the last few weeks (long story, but hopefully I'm back now!) so progress has been slow. Until yesterday, that is!

Pulled the engine with some friends:
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1633/24366482171_83b26dc22e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D8bAez)

Some things I've noticed:
Flywheel looks good to me
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1453/23822132613_8be8c5e9d3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ci5E5n)
Clutch looks worn, but still good-ish
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1586/24153323970_50a0d9293e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CNm6Jb)

FFR provided gasket from turbo to turboback is getting in the way of gas flow! Also it was falling apart. Ordering a nicer one this time around.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1694/24448937095_91cb29e46c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Dftcdc)


Then I did some addition of lightness, one of many things on the list:
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1565/24366483861_dde95088fc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D8bAJH)

Yes, it will be painted to prevent rust. More VHT is on the way

[Pearldrummer7]

Bonus:

Car parts on the living room table, gaming consoles filling the entertainment center, and two taken apart servers (hardly shown, bottom right).... can you tell I'm a bachelor?

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1682/24340654342_495c834467_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D5Udwb)

[Tamra]

Was that clutch new earlier this year?

Whatcha doing to the engine?

[Scargo]

I would ditch that stock level clutch disk and put in a six puck or something better than what you have. It looks like it is wearing unevenly or creating buildup on the flywheel. Same on the pressure plate?

[Pearldrummer7]

Was that clutch new earlier this year?

Whatcha doing to the engine?

It was. Southbend Stage 2, but it was "shallow" looking to begin with.


I would ditch that stock level clutch disk and put in a six puck or something better than what you have. It looks like it is wearing unevenly or creating buildup on the flywheel. Same on the pressure plate?

It's a Stage 2, so supposedly more than I make for power. It's better on the pressure plate side by maybe 20-30%




As for engine....cam seals, timing kit (belt actually has a good chunk taken out of it....phew! close one), oil pan modifications, replacing all the short rubber fuel lines and coolant lines since they're old and cracked, creating a new intake and intercooler solution that I think will be easier to fabricate outside of the car (I have dimensions). I think that's it? And resealing the trans since it leaks like a civ. Not enough money for a diff or I'd do that too.

[AgentH]

Congrats on getting her street legal!

I dunno about a 6 puck... I like Southbend a lot.

Story on imgur was also pretty sweet. nice job!

[Frank818]

can you tell I'm a bachelor?

Nah, judging by the suspension on the table I can tell you are a racer. :)

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats on getting her street legal!

I dunno about a 6 puck... I like Southbend a lot.

Story on imgur was also pretty sweet. nice job!

Thank you and thank you! I like Southbend too and I love how this felt. If I really needed a replacement I would go with their even-heavier-duty full face clutch instead of a pucked one.


Nah, judging by the suspension on the table I can tell you are a racer. :)

;)

[AgentH]

Thank you and thank you! I like Southbend too and I love how this felt. If I really needed a replacement I would go with their even-heavier-duty full face clutch instead of a pucked one.



;)

I had the organic feramic (stage II endurance) on my wagon. I made around 300 wHP/325 wtq (butt dyno) and could hold that all day long. It saw lots of clutch drops and 50k of dd... Totally cooked looking at 50k but I'll never go to another brand clutch as long as I drive subies.

[Scargo]

I make 400 WHP/400 TQ in my STi and it's 8:1 W:P. I now use this (http://www.amazon.com/ACT-SB10-HDG6-Sprung-6-Pad-Pressure/dp/B00I0EJRLG/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1453604295&sr=1-1&keywords=ACT+%28SB10-HDG6%29+HD-M%2FRace+Sprung+6-Pad+Pressure+Plate+Kit)ACT setup and a light ACT flywheel. It is not a difficult clutch to use. I was surprised at how smoothly it engages.

[Pearldrummer7]

I make 400 WHP/400 TQ in my STi and it's 8:1 W:P. I now use this (http://www.amazon.com/ACT-SB10-HDG6-Sprung-6-Pad-Pressure/dp/B00I0EJRLG/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1453604295&sr=1-1&keywords=ACT+%28SB10-HDG6%29+HD-M%2FRace+Sprung+6-Pad+Pressure+Plate+Kit)ACT setup and a light ACT flywheel. It is not a difficult clutch to use. I was surprised at how smoothly it engages.

It's also a lot of money compared to what I paid! That better last a really long time

[AgentH]

I make 400 WHP/400 TQ in my STi and it's 8:1 W:P. I now use this (http://www.amazon.com/ACT-SB10-HDG6-Sprung-6-Pad-Pressure/dp/B00I0EJRLG/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1453604295&sr=1-1&keywords=ACT+%28SB10-HDG6%29+HD-M%2FRace+Sprung+6-Pad+Pressure+Plate+Kit)ACT setup and a light ACT flywheel. It is not a difficult clutch to use. I was surprised at how smoothly it engages.

400 wTQ would probably destroy my Southbend. Before my Southbend, I had a ACT HD street full face clutch. With my modest power levels, it was overkill. But at the same time, without a complete clutch drop, it wouldn't hold very well. I felt like it had a very vague feel and a much higher than stock pedal force. It also chattered quite a bit only lasted about 40 - 45k before slipping. Overall, I was not happy with it. Going to the Southbend clutch was a game changer. I could drive my car for more than an hour and not have a sore clutch foot. Engagement was very easy to modulate and it would grip up very quickly compared to a stock clutch with no chatter. But again, with only 300 wTQ, I have the option of picking a lighter, more civil clutch.

[Pearldrummer7]

Bought an MR2 shifter and started copying Hindsight's bell crank design.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1703/24519463320_fd617ede0c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DmGEcA)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1457/24188134943_3e75bf231a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CRqvPn)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1553/24188135163_e4bd39c04a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CRqvTa)


I'm not great at it, but it's fun to run the mill. They have no issues with me using the one at work. It'll prolly take me a whole week to make all the parts with how intermittently and slowly I'm using it.

Also ordered a Gates timing kit, crank and cam seals, a new 07 STi oil pan and pick up tube (and dipstick guide since mine was cracked). Lots of upgrades to the car!

[Scargo]

It's great to see others making their own parts! Good luck! No fly-cutter?

[RetroRacing]

Nice, need a mill....we need a mill....

[Pearldrummer7]

Nice, need a mill....we need a mill....
Love being able to use the one at work. They have all sorts of cool tools here. Plasma cutter, CNC's lathes and mills, but here I am using the manual knee mill :)

It's great to see others making their own parts! Good luck! No fly-cutter?

These were the only bits I could readily find. I'm not super fancy when it comes to my machining. Find a speed that makes good chips and lube it. That's the extent of my "choice" in things :)

[flynntuna]

Could you post the demensions of the parts when your done?

[Pearldrummer7]

Could you post the demensions of the parts when your done?

Jeff (Hindsight) dimensioned them for me :) I can send those to you or he can. I assume he wouldn't mind.

[Hindsight]

Send away, I don't mind at all. I didn't have time to take a photo-copy of them so you have the only set of originals. You can repay me by being the keeper/sender of the plans hahah. If you have access to a scanner, scanning it into PDF format so it stays true to size and then being able to e-mail it would probably work best.

[Pearldrummer7]

Send away, I don't mind at all. I didn't have time to take a photo-copy of them so you have the only set of originals. You can repay me by being the keeper/sender of the plans hahah. If you have access to a scanner, scanning it into PDF format so it stays true to size and then being able to e-mail it would probably work best.

I will scan it in. I also wrote dimensions (in mm) on the drawing. Just rough estimates- Jeff's drawing and my measurements are a little more art than science :)

[Mechie3]

Hey, what's the angle on one of those?

http://shifthype.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/morethanyou.png


Frank will get it. Hahahaha!

[Pearldrummer7]

More than you can afford, Pal!

hahaha :)

[Pearldrummer7]

Went to the junkyard to get parts for the truck, and I found something pretty nifty:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1484/24805557841_2f4369bd00_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DMYY8K)


Defeated, and buying new parts for the Ferd, I decided to do some wiring, replacing the straight wires with WeatherPack connectors for ease of removal.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1527/24272049273_be41b53dee_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CYQACa)


Also, these came with the sway bar links from FFR. Think I can repurpose them for use on the shifter? I think so :)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1475/24531326309_2919ebfd98_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DnKsDT)

[Hindsight]

RE those rod-ends, they will need to be 1/4-28 threaded for the shifter cables since that is what most of them use. You could always use an adapter of course, but if you do that, it will change where the cables need to mount since they will need to be pushed back a bit.

[Mechie3]

I would just buy the 1/4-28 rod ends. The sway bar ends are BEEFY!

[Hindsight]

The 1/4-28 rod ends are only ~$5 a piece from McMaster if you get the Bronze ones. They have kinds that are even cheaper though.

[Pearldrummer7]

Ordered the rod ends from McMaster instead of trying to adapt these ones. They're so much smaller than I anticipated them being!

Also made the L bracket in the shifter (just roughed up, like the transmission mount one), and half of the cable mount bracket. 1.5 more pieces to make and I'll be ready to test.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1467/24417280603_21fea3d34e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DcEWQB)

In the mean time, my transmission is at Andrewtech getting re-sealed. Wish I could afford the differential this year, but it'll have to wait till next year. Had to buy things like new summer wheels and tires for my WRX, and ran right through both my Hoosier budget for the 818 and the differential budget. Silly cars :rolleyes:

[Frank818]

ran right through both my Hoosier budget for the 818 and the differential budget. Silly cars :rolleyes:

Yeah you bet. Solution to that is to increase your budget. lolll

Nice machine BTW.

[Pearldrummer7]

Yeah you bet. Solution to that is to increase your budget. lolll

Nice machine BTW.

Haha it keeps increasing my budget. How does that keep happening??

Thank you, it's work's haha

[Pearldrummer7]

Got my new DD wheels. 17x9 + 35 for the WRX so I can stuff some meaty tires under there. 255/40 or 265/40. I'm pretty torn at this point, might just run the "conservative" smaller size.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1678/25099110296_81d258b6af_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EeVv3Y)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1677/24757758539_8ce8c4c9b2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DHKZ4R)


An 818 set will be in the works this year I hope. They are seriously beautiful and so solid/strong feeling. I'm excited to see them never break!

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Good choice Frank,
I also got TD, Copied off of Chad.
TD 17x9 48et with 15 mm spacer in the rear. (making it a 33). 255/40-17
TD 17x9 48et with no spacer in the front but with the suspension moved out 20mm. 235/40-17
They are AotoX, DD and track day with R888.

50834

[Pearldrummer7]

Bob- Why such a high offset? You could've gotten a +35mm and a much smaller spacer, I would think that's less stress on the lug nuts.

I love how they look. This set is for my WRX, but the next set will be probably the same thing for the 818.

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Bob- Why such a high offset? You could've gotten a +35mm and a much smaller spacer, I would think that's less stress on the lug nuts.
I love how they look. This set is for my WRX, but the next set will be probably the same thing for the 818.

Hi Frank,
These are the advantages I see:
1. The +48 matched the donor. I wanted 53, but 48 were in stock.

50928

2. The front, no spacers. The higher the offset the smaller the envelope of space used by the tire. Allowed me to use 235 in front with no rubbing.
3. higher offset is less stress on the bearings.
4. The front, less steering pull during braking.
5. The front, less steering pull during bumps.
6. Same rim all around.
7. allows offset adjustability with spacers.
8. My rear has 15mm spacer with 255 tires. If I do custom trailing arms (Wayne's), I can go to smaller or no spacers and go to bigger tires (275) while staying under the fender.

Disadvantage:
1. More stress on my rear ARP studs from an 1800 lb car. The weight on the tire is really handled by the center hole of the rim. I would only use hub centric type spacers.


I think that covers it :rolleyes:
Bob

[Pearldrummer7]

Did cam seals and timing. Well, almost. I found that the rear timing cover was cracked and I am going to replace it before putting my new belt on. Cam and crank seals well well, especially thanks to my fancy seal install tool, courtesy Sgt Gator. Thanks man!

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1571/24747794413_13d0c7f263_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DGSV5z)

It also even slides the crank gear on nicely. This thing fits everything! 10/10 would buy again. Word of caution: use a rubber mallet; I chipped a piece off using a regular hammer.

Found the culprit of the engine leaks. This one cam gear was full of oil and burned plastic from the broken timing cover. The seal was clearly installed without a proper tool and was seriously bent up. It also pulled out so easily! I inserted #8 machine screws into the seals to pull them (with pliers), by the way.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1716/25374522275_33627b4957_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EEg4rn)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1543/25256263782_5c685bb54c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EtNXiQ)


Replacement went smooth, and it was 50*+ all weekend so I actually could work with the doors open and in a t shirt. Man do I miss "summer" weather!

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1458/25006917179_8ffe82b59f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E6LZft)

[Pearldrummer7]

:(

This stripped pretty bad. Couldn't get the 28.9 ft*lbs on it that the FSM recommends. So...I drilled and tapped and installed a helicoil.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1458/25500635845_657f795780_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ERpqBg)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1600/25382170482_d96fa48ba1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EEWfZ1)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1695/24873924903_263d3a6b8f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DU2nhc)

Timing and seals are all complete. Now for oil pan upgrades!

[Scargo]

Please ditch the heat exchanger and that tube that looks like an accident about to happen while you do your upgrades.

[Tamra]

What's wrong with the oil cooler (heat exchanger)? We are using the OEM one in ours too.

But yeah, that oil line looks bad.

[Pearldrummer7]

Please ditch the heat exchanger and that tube that looks like an accident about to happen while you do your upgrades.


What's wrong with the oil cooler (heat exchanger)? We are using the OEM one in ours too.

But yeah, that oil line looks bad.

I have a new tube on order already. What's wrong with the cooler? It looks okay to me! Thanks for the concern though :)

[Scargo]

There's this thread about heat exchangers (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?20279-Removing-Oil-Factory-Oil-Cooler&p=229350#post229350)where I currently have the sixth and last post. I think I have screeds elsewhere. You can do this (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?14697-Help-Headers-that-will-actually-fit-a-2006-2-5L-motor&p=156734&viewfull=1#post156734) or many other similar sandwich solutions* or no sandwich plate.
About the heat exchanger: This heat exchanger is designed for heating the oil and was added to late-model engines, solely to satisfy emissions test requirements by helping accelerate the warm-up process on a cold engine and thus reduce gas consumed. Initially the water circulates through it and as the water warms it warms the oil passing through the exchanger. Once it has heated up the oil it is a worthless POS. It's not needed to pass most emissions tests, as I know them, since you drive in with a warmed-up engine anyway.

I think once you start modifying the exhaust it is a real detriment. I'm not kidding about how headers wrap so closely around it and the hot oil pan is radiating heat. It becoming the Hell Hole of heat. It is not helped by air flow (there is no airflow there) and it is not finned.
Oil is as important to cooling the engine as water is, so relying on the water cooling to reduce the oil temps through the heat exchanger is a joke.

*Move the oil filter to a cool location by adding an adapter block where the filter was and plumb in an oil cooler. If yours is a street car that might get driven in really cool weather then you would need to add a thermostatic valve and/or block off the oil cooler when it's cool. Yes, you are adding complexity and cost but you are eliminating some connections and hoses that can easily leak or burst if they get too hot or old.
If you or anyone wants specifics for an external oil cooling system, I have posted bits and pieces about it here on the 818 forums, but would be happy to provide links to parts if you PM me.

[Tamra]

We watch our oil temp and we haven't had any problems with the oil temp climbing, but perhaps it's more relevant for the track or something. The OEM setup seems to work for us!

[STiPWRD]

That really corroded tube is actually a coolant line if I recall correctly.

[Pearldrummer7]

I'll be removing the coolant line and plugging the ports.

I also just got insurance for the 818! It starts Monday (birthday is Sunday) so I'll be heading the DMV then to get plates. So excited! I went through American Modern.

[Hindsight]

Congrats! How many insurance providers did you shop and what made you choose American Modern?

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats! How many insurance providers did you shop and what made you choose American Modern?

I shopped 7 I think. A few wouldn't do it because of age/roommate's age (NY has to list all household members on registration), and a few were really expensive. American Modern was very reasonably priced, easy to work with, and has good reviews. I don't have personal experience with them yet but it's been pleasant so far. I turn 25 Sunday so I am going to the DMV bright and early Monday morning to get this squared away. So excited!

[Mitch Wright]

Happy Birthday ;)

[RetroRacing]

Dude, one word for you.....t-a-b-l-e.:p

[Tamra]

Happy birthday and congrats!!

[Pearldrummer7]

Happy Birthday ;)


Happy birthday and congrats!!

Thanks guys! I'm so excited to be an adult in two days! Now that I have a track membership, a track car, and a track motorcycle, I'm responsible enough to drive the track car on the street. That's how it works, right?


Dude, one word for you.....t-a-b-l-e.:p

Of insurance quotes and such? I can do that, I think

[Pearldrummer7]

I guess I'm buying new ball joints for my aluminum arms... These were STUCK.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1632/25480102980_300117a894_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EPAbUm)

Front suspension is well underway, with lots and lots of roadblocks.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1457/25754708136_5d1a8040a8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FeRBs1)


One such road block:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1486/25685705731_8dab703dd7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/F8KXrn)

Do you have to remove the steering rack to get this bolt in the race height slot??

[Frank818]

About the bolt and the rack, what's the block? The bolt looks fully seated but on the pic it's hard to say the clearance on the nut side. For the street height you don't need to remove the rack. Is the race height located in the middle or top?

[Pearldrummer7]

About the bolt and the rack, what's the block? The bolt looks fully seated but on the pic it's hard to say the clearance on the nut side. For the street height you don't need to remove the rack. Is the race height located in the middle or top?

Race height is on top. The angled frame piece stops you from putting it in the same way that you can put in the street height bolt. If it goes in from the other side I'm pretty sure the rack needs to come out. Or maybe just the rod end/tie rod if you steer all the way the other direction

[Frank818]

Ha!! That damn angled frame piece! I have had that road block MANY times in different places, especially the engine side due to my totally different proportions and clearances (for examples I have trouble bolting the Porsche inner CV bolts and trouble with my exhaust fitment cuz of the angled frame piece). I symphatize with you. Can't help much on the top slot but how is it shown in the manual? If at all. Do they install the bolt before the rack?

[Pearldrummer7]

And she's fully legal! Just got the plates and ordered the custom vanity plates. LOLDOORS is ready to hit the road! Except that it's in pieces right now....

Also got my bike permit for the GSX-R600 that I impulsively bought from a friend. Life's too short not to have toys, right?


Timeline of 818 legality:
11/13/15- Submitted paper work to NYS DMV (VS-103)
12/9/15- Got appointment with local field investigation station (Syracuse)
12/15/15- Went to appointment (in the pouring rain) and got a VIN
12/30/15- Local NYS inspection
3/13/16- 25th birthday/insurance coverage began
3/14/16- Got plates and ordered vainity plates (LOLDOORS)
??- First street legal drive...coming soon!

Approximate street legality costs:
Windshield: $700 + $110 (install)
Wipers: $185
Bumper: $30
Defroster: $20
Misc: $40
Cat: $110
Lights/markers: $25
Visors: $10
Tax + Registration: $975
Vanity Plates: $60
Sold parts: -$140
Net cost: ~$2,125

Street legal burnout? Priceless.

[Hindsight]

Congrats! Better wait to insure that bike until after that upcoming 25th birthday lol

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats! Better wait to insure that bike until after that upcoming 25th birthday lol

It was yesterday ;) Hence insurance on the 818! I'll insure the bike once I take it on track once or twice. I mean, I would never track something I have insured. No sir :D

[Frank818]

Life's too short not to have toys, right?

Absolutely! And toys are usually more fun when you're not too old. I mean we don't see an 80yo guy riding a GSX-R. :) There could be, but much less than 25yos. :)

[Frank818]

Hey FrankyBolt! Check that out, man.

51532

Plenty o' space if you just turn the wheel. :)

[Pearldrummer7]

Hey FrankyBolt! Check that out, man.

51532

Plenty o' space if you just turn the wheel. :)

Guess what I didn't even consider doing?

Headed to the garage right now to try this out. Frank, you're a lifesaver if so.

[longislandwrx]

To run R height keep in mind you will need to do some clearancing on the aluminum control arms, they rub the frame.

also if you buy the SPT arms they come with new ball joints so no need to buy new ones. just get new pinch bolts.

[Pearldrummer7]

To run R height keep in mind you will need to do some clearancing on the aluminum control arms, they rub the frame.

also if you buy the SPT arms they come with new ball joints so no need to buy new ones. just get new pinch bolts.

I saw in the supplemental information where they mention potential rubbing. What part of the control arm rubs?

[Mitch Wright]

If I remember correctly when I installed mine I removed the casting tap on the bushing mount to clear the frame. It is quick work with a belt sander or grinder.

[Scargo]

... they come with new ball joints so no need to buy new ones. just get new pinch bolts. Please explain the "new pinch bolts" comment. I had one come loose/fail. It was ugly.

[Frank818]

Please explain the "new pinch bolts" comment. I had one come loose/fail. It was ugly.

Both of mines have bent.

[longislandwrx]

Please explain the "new pinch bolts" comment. I had one come loose/fail. It was ugly.

For clarity, and I know you know this Scargo, but others might not, the pinch bolt is the bolt that retains the ball joint in the knuckle.

I don't recommend anyone reuse the pinch bolts ever, they are usually in rough shape when/if you remove them and god forbid you torque them and they break, it's a huge pain in the ***.

Subaru part number is 901000060, they are like $1.25 so why not.


If I remember correctly when I installed mine I removed the casting tap on the bushing mount to clear the frame. It is quick work with a belt sander or grinder.

Correct, you have to take the casting flash and then a little more off too get a smooth movement and make sure there is no binding during bushing deflection. Plaven's thread shows the rub nicely.

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?11129-Plavan-s-818R-Build-Thread&p=121570&viewfull=1#post121570

[shoeish]

Thanks for letting me know about the flange bolts. I just ordered some and will switch them out. Proper torque is...?

[longislandwrx]

37ft/lbs

[Pearldrummer7]

All good comments on the pinch bolts. I'll be replacing mine, too.

Here's the part I needed to shave down. It didn't look like it hit but no reason to chance it (weight savings, anyone?)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1595/25785339961_774bf6453e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FhyBdV)

Spacers are made! Just need the torque spec on these bolts going into the control arm (can't find it anywhere online?) and I can start making spacers
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1660/25785340541_304a35aa2a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FhyBoV)

[Frank818]

Spacers are made! Just need the torque spec on these bolts going into the control arm (can't find it anywhere online?) and I can start making spacers
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1660/25785340541_304a35aa2a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FhyBoV)

114ft-lbs

[Pearldrummer7]

114ft-lbs

You are the man! I knew it was a lot but less than the 184 or whatever the rear bolt is.

[Frank818]

184 on the big nut yes.

What I have gathered for the Front suspension with Alu LCAs and Wilwood Big Brake kit is this:

Front Suspension/rack
Transverse bushing nut 140ft-lbs
Transverse bolts to frame 184ft-lbs
Crossmember bolt to frame 70ft-lbs
Black transverse pin bolts 114ft-lbs
Tie-rod end nut to spindle 20ft-lbs
IFS bracket to spindle upper bolt 129ft-lbs
IFS bracket to spindle lower bolt 129ft-lbs
LCA ball joint end to spindle 37ft-lbs
Backplate to spindle 20ft-lbs
Wilwood Big Caliper kit bolts to spindle 47ft-lbs with Red Loctite
A-arms to frame bolts 100-110ft-lbs
A-arms pivot bolts 60ft-lbs
A-arm ball joint bracket to spindle 129ft-lbss
Axle nut to hub 162ft-lbss
Steering rack to frame 44ft-lbss
Steering joint to rack 17ft-lbss

[Pearldrummer7]

184 on the big nut yes.

What I have gathered for the Front suspension with Alu LCAs and Wilwood Big Brake kit is this:

Front Suspension/rack
Transverse bushing nut 140ft-lbs
Transverse bolts to frame 184ft-lbs
Crossmember bolt to frame 70ft-lbs
Black transverse pin bolts 114ft-lbs
Tie-rod end nut to spindle 20ft-lbs
IFS bracket to spindle upper bolt 129ft-lbs
IFS bracket to spindle lower bolt 129ft-lbs
LCA ball joint end to spindle 37ft-lbs
Backplate to spindle 20ft-lbs
Wilwood Big Caliper kit bolts to spindle 47ft-lbs with Red Loctite
A-arms to frame bolts 100-110ft-lbs
A-arms pivot bolts 60ft-lbs
A-arm ball joint bracket to spindle 129ft-lbss
Axle nut to hub 162ft-lbss
Steering rack to frame 44ft-lbss
Steering joint to rack 17ft-lbss

Awesome. Thanks again, Frank. I made a Google Docs (here (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1VZ2_pZ0pvTwYnfNPnw1T8N8P6mkkdXQPPydrjph0deI/edit#gid=0)) with all of this information. I posted it in its own thread, too. Should be a good resource for all of this suspension crap. Any more that you have that I'm missing?

[Frank818]

It looks like you already had the rear suspension specs so the front completes all I got.
Judging by the number of times I torqued and untorqued these bolts, the info has been very useful already. Every time I torqued I thought it was the last time but no, I always needed to remove and I will probably again for some reason. :)

[RetroRacing]

We had to clearance the same casting marks off of ours. We went a little further by sanding off all the casting ridges. should have removed the sway bar mounts, but wanted to tune the handling first just to be sure we don't need a front bar.

[Frank818]

Frankyboy, how thick are your LCA spacers? They are about 5mm to my eyes, is that correct? I am using 10mm thick, what are your expectations with yours? Gaining camber? Only caster? 1-2deg or aiming to 3-4deg gain?

[Pearldrummer7]

Frankyboy, how thick are your LCA spacers? They are about 5mm to my eyes, is that correct? I am using 10mm thick, what are your expectations with yours? Gaining camber? Only caster? 1-2deg or aiming to 3-4deg gain?

They're 6.25 mm because I found a piece of steel lying around that was 75mm wide and 6.25 thick. Just had to trim the length and it was perfect!

I expect to gain caster for sure. I was at 3.5 last year and expect 3 more out of this. I think that's reasonable from what I read? I don't know if I'll get any more camber out of it. I only ended up with the spacer and flipped hurricane bracket. The mount I flipped back since it was so much of an angle (I couldn't get the bolt through the front bushing). I used a 50mm long bolt for what it's worth.

[Pearldrummer7]

Busy weekend! Changed oil on 6 cars, finished up my front suspension:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1476/25846565952_28b0350252_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FnYpzs)

Started the adventure of making my own bump steer kit (don't have the spare cash for a Baer one):
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1483/25334665034_c53ce94591_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EAJMgy)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1531/25872437521_811958de3c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Fqg1hZ)
(the etched mark is the depth of the OEM threads)

And refurbished my steering rack (with some help in getting the tie rods off from the rust bucket!):
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1714/25846597962_e47063ce69_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FnYz6m)

Also rolled the WRX fenders to fit my new Team Dynamics wheels:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1525/25967406345_9645a76842_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FyDKdv)

They look great and the 20mm extra width (255 wide tires) is appreciated already.

[Pearldrummer7]

Bonus pic- it was chilly in upstate NY this weekend (yes we got snow today):
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1521/25334710434_b635fb4b91_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EAK1Lj)

[FFRSpec72]

Have you tried something like the Perrin PSRS Offset Bushings (I'm sure others make something just like them), as you flip them and these take care of the need for the spacer. You can get another couples degrees of caster and about a degree of camber out of these.

[Pearldrummer7]

Have you tried something like the Perrin PSRS Offset Bushings (I'm sure others make something just like them), as you flip them and these take care of the need for the spacer. You can get another couples degrees of caster and about a degree of camber out of these.

Tony-
I've seen those before. I was going to see what my alignment was like with the OEM hardware then see how much more I want from there. Does anyone on here have the Perrin offset bushings?

[FFRSpec72]

Tony-
I've seen those before. I was going to see what my alignment was like with the OEM hardware then see how much more I want from there. Does anyone on here have the Perrin offset bushings?

The center drive 818 R is running these, they seemed pleased so far, they are somewhat worried about the wear on the front bushings since the rear are a lot stiffer

[Pearldrummer7]

Installed the new oil pan/pickup tube. I also removed the oil heater per Glyn's suggestion. Made a hard line out of copper to bypass it.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1490/25997229122_c7b964064e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FBhAuj)

Only reason the engine/transmission isn't in is because the shop forgot to send back my shift fork/throw out bearing with the transmission :(

Besides that, it's all ready to bolt in and do some street legal burnouts!

[Pearldrummer7]

Not 818 related, but check out those Team Dynamics wheels on my daily driver! Had a wedding to attend in VT and had a ton of fun on the backroads on the way there. On the way back, I hit a snowstorm and regretted the whole summer tire thing.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1605/26165927521_5a22c1d2ea_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FScdDp)

[FFRSpec72]

Installed the new oil pan/pickup tube. I also removed the oil heater per Glyn's suggestion. Made a hard line out of copper to bypass it.

I assume that you have some sort of oil cooler ?

[Pearldrummer7]

I assume that you have some sort of oil cooler ?

I am not. I haven't had hot oil on this car (or my WRX for that matter) and planned to design/install a cooler this winter but I was sick for ~6 weeks and am way behind on car work. I figured when and if I saw oil temperatures that concerned me I would figure out a cooling solution, but they were cool the first 4 track days.

Does everyone really think such a cooler is necessary?

[FFRSpec72]

I am not. I haven't had hot oil on this car (or my WRX for that matter) and planned to design/install a cooler this winter but I was sick for ~6 weeks and am way behind on car work. I figured when and if I saw oil temperatures that concerned me I would figure out a cooling solution, but they were cool the first 4 track days.

Does everyone really think such a cooler is necessary?

The center drive car removed the stock oil "thing" and and ran no oil cooler and the oil temps were up almost 20 degrees, so they are now having to install and oil cooler

[Pearldrummer7]

The center drive car removed the stock oil "thing" and and ran no oil cooler and the oil temps were up almost 20 degrees, so they are now having to install and oil cooler

Huh. I guess I was under the impression that the stock oil "thing" heated the oil up more than it cooled it off. I think the quickest and cheapest solution will be to run the stock oil "thing" for now. I'm super short on time before track season (spending the rest of the month in Asia) so I don't think I'll be able to get a new oil cooler designed/installed by then

[FFRSpec72]

Huh. I guess I was under the impression that the stock oil "thing" heated the oil up more than it cooled it off. I think the quickest and cheapest solution will be to run the stock oil "thing" for now. I'm super short on time before track season (spending the rest of the month in Asia) so I don't think I'll be able to get a new oil cooler designed/installed by then

It seems that it really provides for heat transfer

[Mitch Wright]

Frank, based on what a few buddies are running on thier track and race Subaru's and not having water or oil temp issues I just replaced the OEM water/oil heat exchanger with a new one. If I have oil temp issues I at adding a water/oil cooler in the radiator coolant line.
At my modest power level I don't anticipate a problem, we will see when we get to the middle of summer.

[Pearldrummer7]

Frank, based on what a few buddies are running on thier track and race Subaru's and not having water or oil temp issues I just replaced the OEM water/oil heat exchanger with a new one. If I have oil temp issues I at adding a water/oil cooler in the radiator coolant line.
At my modest power level I don't anticipate a problem, we will see when we get to the middle of summer.

Mitch- thanks for the reply. Replacing it with a new OEM one, right?

[Mitch Wright]

Yes, that is what I did based on the on track experence of folks I know. When I finish up all my 10 minutes jobs my car will live at the track for a while for lunch time testing.

[Pearldrummer7]

Leaving for Asia for a weeks tonight. Popped the engine and trans in and started hooking it all up. No way I'll be able to start it before I leave but at least it's together! And I've reclaimed enough space to put the WRX back in the garage.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1720/26033706880_e019830548_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FEvy4b)

Anyone a Roadkill fan?
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1579/26240319931_e4292a3f1d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FYLuVa)


It's just the best way to make lists. That list has since become front and back, and has had a dozen or so things crossed off. Hitting the ground running when I return home!

[Pearldrummer7]

Plates came today :)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1717/26248740131_82d991c76c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FZvDX2)

[FFRSpec72]

Nice, I like the plate !

[Hindsight]

Hah, that's a great plate

[Pearldrummer7]

Back from Asia! And I hit the ground running yesterday until I just had to sleep at around 8 pm -_- stupid jet lag!

Got a lot done. Rear suspension, axles, AOS, coolant plumbing, wiring, and a lot of little loose ends.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1469/26030873003_a85e083c91_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FEg2De)

Also did all new, higher quality exhaust gaskets all around. Apparently they're well needed; think these leak?
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1683/26030872953_0b4fb6c400_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FEg2Cn)

Ran into a little race-height snaffo- gonna be a pain to get this out
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1442/26030873283_c2e736fa10_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FEg2J4)

Getting there...slowly but surely.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1450/26030873363_55098c49e3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FEg2Kr)

[Hindsight]

Ran into a little race-height snaffo- gonna be a pain to get this out
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1442/26030873283_c2e736fa10_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FEg2J4)


Frank, for stuff like that, I find this tool invaluable:
http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DWARA100-Right-Angle-Attachment/dp/B00C0VSNKQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461614839&sr=8-1&keywords=angle+drill+attachment+dewalt
With:
http://www.amazon.com/Milescraft-2320-Metal-Stubby-Drill/dp/B001JEOIHW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1461614869&sr=8-2&keywords=short+hex+drill+bits

It's a bit awkward to use but has saved me MANY times.

[Scargo]

It's a bit awkward to use but has saved me MANY times. I have the first item and will be buying the stubby bits! Thanks.

[Pearldrummer7]

I've been meaning to pick one of those up for a while, and since the Harbor Freight in our town opened over the weekend I decided that yesterday was the day!

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1623/26647522526_0a17a7195d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GAKw4y)

Already paid for itself. That said, my Craftsman rivet tool is utter garbage. Takes ~5 rivets to successfully put one in. Does anyone have a suggestion for a replacement tool?

[Hindsight]

Yes! The harbor freight pneumatic air riveter actually works fantastic. Remove the catch cup from the back and it will fit into tight spaces. If still too big for a certain area, I have had good success with a Stanley manual riveter from Lowes/Home Depot.

[wleehendrick]

I've put every rivet in manually with the Stanley "contractor grade" hand riveter, $20 on Amazon. Works great; 1/8" are easy, the 3/16" will pump your forearms like Popeye.

[Sgt.Gator]

My new favorite tool:
5336553366

Astro 1822 1/2" Nano Impact Wrench
450 ft./lbs. of max torque
Extremely short profile, full length of less than 3-7/8"
Incredibly lightweight at 3.0lbs
3 forward and 3 reverse settings
Innovative twin hammer design

Awesomeness!

[Pearldrummer7]

Yes! The harbor freight pneumatic air riveter actually works fantastic. Remove the catch cup from the back and it will fit into tight spaces. If still too big for a certain area, I have had good success with a Stanley manual riveter from Lowes/Home Depot.


My new favorite tool:
5336553366

Astro 1822 1/2" Nano Impact Wrench
450 ft./lbs. of max torque
Extremely short profile, full length of less than 3-7/8"
Incredibly lightweight at 3.0lbs
3 forward and 3 reverse settings
Innovative twin hammer design

Awesomeness!

Unfortunately I don't have a compressor and it's not quite in the budget yet :/ so hand tools for me!


I've put every rivet in manually with the Stanley "contractor grade" hand riveter, $20 on Amazon. Works great; 1/8" are easy, the 3/16" will pump your forearms like Popeye.

Sounds like Stanley is the unanimous winner (of all 2 votes) for a hand tool!

[Pearldrummer7]

Drilled out the hubs to 5/8" (man, that's so huge!) using a step bit then a large drill bit in the vice, per Chad's suggestion (here (http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?14526-818R-Baer-Bumpsteer-Install-Guide)). It came out pretty tight and I think it'll work just fine :)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1709/26665958446_35fafa23ab_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GCo1qf)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1483/26419696710_3c4e8604a1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GfBRof)

Also turned my old tie rod ends to avoid buying the Baer kit (might not be a college kid anymore, but boy do I feel as broke as one sometimes!). Came out great I think.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1570/26419731320_4456af6d3e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GfC2EY)

Next up is mounting it all, then torquing it all to spec. First track day at NYST is next Saturday and I'm gone all weekend- let's see if I can get it all ready by then! If not, bike weekend :) I won't be too heartbroken.

[Pearldrummer7]

Great news all around:

The car lives! Tried to start it, and it had a dead battery (on the tender now). Tried again with my jumper pack and it was running on 3 cylinders. I changed the spark plugs (which were very fouled) and it ran just fine :)

https://vimeo.com/165854923
Also finished up my front suspension:

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7427/26816371492_700ce8282f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GREUYC)


And I rode my track bike for the first time this weekend (after a LOT of work on it...as if I needed one more freaking project). Two wheels is good. Real good. I absolutely love it.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/26877197386_b3b2e475d5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GX3EoW)
http://572creations.zenfolio.com/img/s11/v31/p2086513534-4.jpg (http://572creations.zenfolio.com/p118830219/e7c5dab7e)
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7100/26909998165_87486f67fa_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZWLVB)
Got pretty far up on the wheel by the end of it. Second time on a motorcycle(first was a 250 dual sport on the street). Pretty happy with my results considering that!

[Hindsight]

Wow, I don't think I know anyone who started riding track without a lot of street riding first - smart man! Much safer to go fast on the track than on the street. Less temptation to go out wearing anything less than full safety gear too.

Congrats on getting those chicken strips worn down a bit ;)

I had a Ducati for a while but sold it after moving to Atlanta. Not a great place to ride motorcycles. I do miss two wheels though!

[Pearldrummer7]

Wow, I don't think I know anyone who started riding track without a lot of street riding first - smart man! Much safer to go fast on the track than on the street. Less temptation to go out wearing anything less than full safety gear too.

Congrats on getting those chicken strips worn down a bit ;)

I had a Ducati for a while but sold it after moving to Atlanta. Not a great place to ride motorcycles. I do miss two wheels though!

Thanks! I'm working on that whole being-ballsy-enough-to-lean thing. My first lap I did a solid 55 mph down the straight away :rolleyes:

I'm not even tempted to bring the bike into street legality. I can't imagine it's as fun as the track, and it's so dangerous! Like you said...much safer on the track. I'm gonna keep two wheels there for now

[DSR-3]

Thanks for posting all of the info and pictures. Always helpful to new-builders.
Nice bike! Looks like so much fun, and brings back good memories (I lived on dirt bikes and road racing- never street licensed).
*I suggest you consider better quality/higher spec rod ends for your steering. Those are OK for sway bars links, etc., but not for critical app's.
Congrats on the start-up! 'Looking forward to watching you progress & track debut.

[Pearldrummer7]

Thanks for posting all of the info and pictures. Always helpful to new-builders.
Nice bike! Looks like so much fun, and brings back good memories (I lived on dirt bikes and road racing- never street licensed).
*I suggest you consider better quality/higher spec rod ends for your steering. Those are OK for sway bars links, etc., but not for critical app's.
Congrats on the start-up! 'Looking forward to watching you progress & track debut.

Thanks! I've actually already tracked it 4 times, but took it apart over winter. Looking forward to getting back out there.

What isn't quality enough about those? The 5/8" bolt? Or the McMaster rod ends? This is what Chad Plavan did with success (albeit not as home made...same style hardware, though) and what Rasmus did (untested)
http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?14526-818R-Baer-Bumpsteer-Install-Guide

[DSR-3]

Sorry I didn't make it through all your posts to know you had made it so far. Big congtrats!
It's the cheapo rod ends (check the load ratings). I've seen that style fail on race cars- in less demanding/critical points, and they wear quickly. Obviously, they will work for some time, but steering is a no compromise application and no way to learn about failures. Just a suggestion, but I'd swallow the $35 for a good Aurora part. Rod-end washers are a nice/safe addition https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productselection.asp?Product=3068

[Pearldrummer7]

Sorry I didn't make it through all your posts to know you had made it so far. Big congtrats!
It's the cheapo rod ends (check the load ratings). I've seen that style fail on race cars- in less demanding/critical points, and they wear quickly. Obviously, they will work for some time, but steering is a no compromise application and no way to learn about failures. Just a suggestion, but I'd swallow the $35 for a good Aurora part. Rod-end washers are a nice/safe addition https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productselection.asp?Product=3068

Thanks again! That is some solid advice and an easy enough change. I think I'll be ordering some new ones soon :)

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Thanks! I'm working on that whole being-ballsy-enough-to-lean thing.

Here is our teams bike at PP.
You know you a leaning enough when the sprocket hits the ground.
Bob

53788

[Pearldrummer7]

Aw my turbo is cracked.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/26648831490_cd87e98664_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GASeaU)

Now what? Any suggestions? I assume I shouldn't run this anymore.

Thinking maybe a VF48 or another 39? I guess this gives me an excuse to get retuned and do my AWIC and intake changes, I guess

[Kurk818]

From what ive seen, that crack from the waste gate is pretty common and ive been told by some who know more than i that its not an issue. Can someone else confirm this?

[chedda]

I've been in the subaru community for many years. The VF series turbos on subarus all suffer from this issue. Some crack more than others. It is a non-issue and pretty common. If the crack went towards the exhaust shaft, yes that would have been an issue.

[Pearldrummer7]

From what ive seen, that crack from the waste gate is pretty common and ive been told by some who know more than i that its not an issue. Can someone else confirm this?


I've been in the subaru community for many years. The VF series turbos on subarus all suffer from this issue. Some crack more than others. It is a non-issue and pretty common. If the crack went towards the exhaust shaft, yes that would have been an issue.

The overwhelming opinion online is that this is in fact a non-issue. I don't know HOW that makes sense, but I'm giving my tuner a call and seeing what he says

[Mitch Wright]

Don't have advice on the turbo but you do need to replace the 5/8 rod ends with much higher quality parts as DRS 3 has suggested.

[Pearldrummer7]

Table time!



Price (each)
Radial load rating (lb)


McMaster low carbon
$8.30
6,869


McMaster high strength PTFE
$39.44
17,959


Aurora low carbon
$24.49
7,364


Aurora high strength PTFE
$57.99
17,148



I'm thinking that if 6,869 static pounds isn't enough (really think it isn't?) then the high strength McMaster ones are a lot better bang per buck. Thoughts?

[DSR-3]

Yea, those big ones are bound to be expensive! I may have lead you down the wrong path by using "load ratings" as an example of the difference. Static ratings for rod ends are pretty much just the material rating as I recall, and not really a good single criteria for selection. Fair chance that the McMaster parts are some Aurora model... Just look out for the Mil Spec option- $277 ouch!

[305mouse]

ditto to what the others have said. Just like the 2.0 heads cracking around the spark plug holes. They all end up doing it and you would never know unless you saw it. It's a good excuse to weld it and go EWG

[Pearldrummer7]

So. I think I'm going to make a bracket to hold the IWG shut. It seems easier than welding inside of the turbo housing? Then run an EWG. I assume I can weld a bung to the uppipe and use the existing one, instead of buying a new uppipe?

Also, 38mm vs 44mm? I believe I'm okay with 38 at these boost levels. Any thoughts?

[longislandwrx]

you can buy a bracket from grimmspeed that will hold it shut, price is reasonable and will save you time. on a 2.0 a 38mm should be fine. Its actually the opposite of what you'd think, the more boost you run the less you need a wastegate.

you can weld a tube and a bung to your existing aftermarket uppipe no problem.

[Pearldrummer7]

you can buy a bracket from grimmspeed that will hold it shut, price is reasonable and will save you time. on a 2.0 a 38mm should be fine. Its actually the opposite of what you'd think, the more boost you run the less you need a wastegate.

you can weld a tube and a bung to your existing aftermarket uppipe no problem.

2.5L* motor. But still, I read it'd be fine on the VF39.

Any idea on sizing? I was thinking 1.5" pipe since that's 38.1mm....

[Pearldrummer7]

So, I decided to go EWG on my 818. I took my turbo to work and had some help machining the crack out and welding it. Also welded the wastegate shut while I was in there and will be removing the arm from it. I bought a 38mm Tial EWG from a friend and will be welding it to the uppipe as soon as I pick up the EWG (at the track...might have to do a few laps on the bike while I'm there!)

https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7719/27009454980_6cf1d913b1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H9JvYh)
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7448/26678733953_8d4e653097_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GDvu8B)

Also, got a new sticker for the 818. Pretty stoked about it. Of course it's my local track, NYST.

https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7792/27214780891_65c0c6d4ce_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HsSSdc)

Once I get the turbo and EWG installed, I'll be ready to hit the tuner for a retune and alignment. Numbers I have in mind for alignment are:

As much camber as I can reasonably get (between 2.5 and 3* negative camber), at least 6-7* caster. No clue on toe. Any ideas, all?

[Pearldrummer7]

Off topic- My track progress on the bike. It's a fun little toy.

Day 1:
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7765/27123018560_1f863251e9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HjLyt3)

Day 4:
https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7027/26592905134_01f6319748_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GvVAdo)

Day 5:
https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7026/27365106686_27e729ffe0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HGajQf)

Laid it down on the morning of day 6. I'm totally fine, and the bike has some aesthetic damage. Practice working with fiberglass now :)


On topic-

EWG is here and ready to go on. It's gonna have to be a little different location than a typical Subaru's EWG because of the proximity to the frame.

[WRXForward]

Beautiful colors on that bike.

[Frank818]

Bike specs?

[Pearldrummer7]

Beautiful colors on that bike.


Bike specs?

Thank you! It's a 2007 GSX-R 600, spent most of its life on the track and has a bunch of track mods done to it (full exhaust, suspension, etc.). I like it! Not anywhere near as much as I like the car. And on that note:


There we go! EWG installed, just some assembly and I'll be ready to tune.

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7362/26950162153_d2dc292560_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H4uCha)

https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7406/26950162283_f4932d69af_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/H4uCjp)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7381/27459924472_a317ae355a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HQxhRE)

[Scargo]

Ha ha... It's almost as big as the turbo! Where is that monster going to belch its fire (exhaust to)?
I used to ride a Kaw KZ650 C2. I think I put 65K on it and sold it ridable.

[Hindsight]

Nice EWG. You'll have to let us know what you think of the difference in performance.

[Pearldrummer7]

Ha ha... It's almost as big as the turbo! Where is that monster going to belch its fire (exhaust to)?
I used to ride a Kaw KZ650 C2. I think I put 65K on it and sold it ridable.


Nice EWG. You'll have to let us know what you think of the difference in performance.

I'm gonna make a divorced dump tube to go out near the exhaust. It's a lot of work for seemingly no gains to route the EWG gas into the exhaust. I'll definitely let everyone know what I think of the power difference!

Sweet bike! Mine has very few miles on it, but every one of them is a hard mile haha

[Hindsight]

From what I have read, you get more power by NOT re-merging the EWG dump back into the main exhaust due to turbulence losses. By not merging it though, it will be loud and have that distinct sound.

[Pearldrummer7]

From what I have read, you get more power by NOT re-merging the EWG dump back into the main exhaust due to turbulence losses. By not merging it though, it will be loud and have that distinct sound.

Both my toys are already so loud that a little more noise won't be an issue ;)

[Sgt.Gator]

I ran an open EWG for awhile in my LGT and had two issues. One, it makes a very weird and loud sound. It took a while to get used to it, and I never really did get used to it and never liked it. The other was it dumped next to the tranny, that heated up the tranny too hot. In a street car you would never see the heat issue because the EWG is not open long or often enough, but in a race car it's open all the time and dumping the hot gas. So I ended up re routing the EWG back into the exhaust a couple of feet downstream past the tranny. If you bend the end of the dump tube away from the tranny and run it out the back or side that shouldn't be an issue.

[Pearldrummer7]

I ran an open EWG for awhile in my LGT and had two issues. One, it makes a very weird and loud sound. It took a while to get used to it, and I never really did get used to it and never liked it. The other was it dumped next to the tranny, that heated up the tranny too hot. In a street car you would never see the heat issue because the EWG is not open long or often enough, but in a race car it's open all the time and dumping the hot gas. So I ended up re routing the EWG back into the exhaust a couple of feet downstream past the tranny. If you bend the end of the dump tube away from the tranny and run it out the back or side that shouldn't be an issue.

I already have a dump tube that angles to the ground at the back of the car. I'm gonna wrap it and re wrap the UP today. It does make a weird sound from what I have seen from YouTube, but at least it'll be behind me instead of in front of me.

[Wayne Presley]

You still hear the dump pipe ...
https://youtu.be/C3CZKoLbwg4

[Hindsight]

If you run an EBC, you'll often times get a weird fluttering sound coming from the dump tube... like a pulsing sound. It's due to the way the EBC pulses to control the boost. I hear there are some new EBCs coming out that are somehow smoother and don't result in this sound.

[305mouse]

I miss my ewg on the Saabaru I used to have. For dd it was too much but at an autox event that sound put a huge smile on my face. I'm sure you're familiar with cherry valley Frank. It echoed off the hillside. But obviously the EWG isn't for sound. Turbo felt a lot better afterwards. It was a VF35 and held 22 PSI peak.

[Mechie3]

Indycars use EWG not replumbed and they sound sweet. :D

[longislandwrx]

just aim it away from your axle boots and fiberglass.

[Pearldrummer7]

I'm excited for the noise :) they sound very race car.

Intake prototype, version 1:
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7416/27564211192_04771f44f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HZKMEy)
https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7618/27386259860_cf537bfd92_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HJ2JW9)
https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7635/27386260170_06dbc877b1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HJ2K2u)


Assembled a bunch of the car last night. I have an appointment to get tuned again on 6/24. 6/25 and 6/26 are car days at the track, so with any luck I can hit the track right after the tuner appointment
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7785/27386260240_398d83d11f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HJ2K3G)

[Pearldrummer7]

My poor passenger....
https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7111/27180084143_f948a61b2a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HpP35p)

:cool:

Had a little deepwater horizon incident here.... oil line to the turbo wasn't bolted in. That was one of those....okay, it started; idles okay; let's che-OH CRAP TURN IT OFF!... moments
https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7290/27756849156_e4ce210dbb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JhM7dL)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7524/27756849336_8226648235_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JhM7gS)


Despite the spill, most everything looks good (including the license plate):
https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7438/27690614772_1d18fd8aa6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JbVD3C)

However, little bad news. My ball joints do NOT fit in my control arms. The second I started moving in it, I noticed that one. They have a ton of slop on the lower portion, and it gouged my wheel pretty good. Hopefully getting new ball joints from the dealership today (I had non-OEM ones) and doing a little run down the driveway.

[AgentH]

Busy weekend! Changed oil on 6 cars, finished up my front suspension:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1476/25846565952_28b0350252_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FnYpzs)



There are these aluminum cones that fit over the ball joints into the control arms and provide a secure fit. Could be why you are seeing all sorts of slop from your ball joints?

[Pearldrummer7]

Yeah, I just found that in the part diagram. Ordered from Subaru along with new ball joints. Oops!

[Pearldrummer7]

Installed them! I will be headed to the tuner tomorrow after work for a Friday morning alignment and a tune. With any luck, I'll be on track Saturday morning at NYST. I drove the car down the driveway and it reminded me how insanely fun this thing is. I absolutely love this car. So stoked to get back out there!

[Pearldrummer7]

Friday I dyno'd and aligned the car and today I tracked it at NYST. Awesome time. It broke after the 4th of 7 sessions but nothing too bad. I'll upload a video, logs, and a description when I'm at a computer.

This car is FREAKING AMAZING. I love it.

[Hindsight]

Awesome Frank, big congrats!! Looking forward to video.

What broke?

[Mitch Wright]

Great news Frank congratulations.
Curious what did you break?

[Frank818]

Awesome!!!!!!!!!! :)

[Pearldrummer7]

Awesome Frank, big congrats!! Looking forward to video.

What broke?

Here's a video clip of it. I only had the GoPro on during this session and it's when I had the issue that made me go home. A rundown of the day:


https://vimeo.com/172261320

The good:
I had a ton of fun and OH MY is this thing fast. All I did was pass people all day. It's like playing Forza on "easy" difficulty. It's much more stable with its current alignment and the power is much better/smoother than before. The dyno'ing went very well and the alignment went alright. We got left to right balance with -3.5* caster and -1.5* camber. I wanted more oh both but that's all she had in her. Had to borrow from caster to get camber. https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7444/27329364894_dbedd9940a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HD193s)
https://c5.staticflickr.com/8/7129/27840258092_6bbe5dd3e5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jq9AMS)

I ran with no rear deck lid as my new intake (Chad style, kind of) won't allow it and the AAIC doesn't get good airflow. Once I go AWIC I will modify the deck lid to fit. Till then, less aero and more cooling.

By the end of my day (I did 4 of the 7 sessions) I had great looking logs (no big timing pulls, steady boost, great IATs and coolant temps steadily in the 120-135 range while moving (more like 150-160 while stationary). I run coolant fans off of a switch so they're always on while I'm at the track (and even after I shut it off for a minute or two).

The bad:
I had a nut back off on the shifter cable (dunno why), so I did a session mostly in third gear. STILL was passing people even losing so much ground on the straight.

I had a bit of tire rub pic will go here) on my front left fender so I trimmed it a little but will have to take it down more later. Nothing too bad, just beat the tire up a little bit. Only had a leatherman (no dremmel or sandpaper) so I trimmed by hand :lol:
https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7451/27840258902_865c832874_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jq9B2Q)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7610/27329365984_d66877f426_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HD19nf)

I had a bubble in the coolant that I caught early and worked out quickly.

I have NO confidence in that shifter, as you can see in the video. I really hate that thing and will try to get the new one working as soon as I can. I have to shift very slowly and deliberately- and then double check if I'm actually in a gear- if it's got left/right motion to it (i.e. not 3rd and 4th gear). It sucks and it really throws me off mentally and line-wise.

The ugly:
In the above video's session I kept feeling the car pull left seemingly out of nowhere. I thought it was suspension bind or a loose joint while driving. Came off track for it a bit early because it was getting worse and saw a cloud of smoke behind me. I turned the engine off and pulled it into the pit and immediately saw it was the brakes and the axle boot's grease. I believe the axle boot was popped off when the brake seized, or maybe ripped/burned through. pic here Either way it was clear that the brake was done. Rather than push my luck and run to the parts store and try to replace it on the fly then get back out there, I decided to go home. I had more fun in the 4 session I drove than anyone else did in their 7, I'm pretty sure. Boy did it suck to push that onto the trailer and around the garage with a stuck brake!
UPDATE- NOT A STUCK BRAKE. BEARING FAILURE

https://c7.staticflickr.com/8/7114/27662838270_53e6156d16_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/J9th4q)

Author's notes:
I have been riding the bike for 7 track days now and kept getting told how I'll never want to go back to the car by a bunch of guys there. I took 3 of them for a ride today and all 3 were shocked at how fast the car was and how late I could brake. I also am SURE that my car is more fun than my bike. I couldn't be happier with this car right now, even though I drove my 93's pickup truck with a 6 cylinder (SO SLOW) for 12-13 hours this weekend just to get an hour on track with it.

[Pearldrummer7]

but seriously it's so fast you guys :D :D :D

[Kurk818]

Congrats man! :D so happy for you.

[07FIREBLADE]

^^^ this is why I'm alright with selling my bike when I get married in August. I can push the car harder than I feel comfortable on my bike. Glad you had so much fun.

[Hindsight]

Wow that looks like fun! Sorry to hear about the trouble but for a first track day, that's not too bad.

Have you decided what shifter you are going to switch over to?

[DSR-3]

Conragats' on what sounds like a fun day. "It's always something"... I was always super thorough about prep for weekends, and very few didn't have something more than "gas and tires" to work on... Bikes are great fun, and I sometimes miss them. Flying off- not so much. I can still feel a couple of those 30 years later!
Thanks for posting on your experience.

[Frank818]

I love that video! :) Nice straight, nice track, beautiful! I'm sure you can take that 1st corner faster. :)

We won't tell anyone you're driving a car with motorcycle gloves husssshhhhh lolllll I admit the idea is great!

[Pearldrummer7]

Thanks all! It wasn't my first day out with the car, just the first time this year. I'll post all the pics and videos tomorrow. Frank- I can, but I miss 4th gear about 25% of the time. Not worth the risk until I have some confidence in the shifter. Those are "dual purpose" gloves in my mind ;)

I found out I do NOT have a stuck rotor, just a destroyed wheel bearing. Completely destroyed! Carnage video tomorrow morning. Now to decide if I buy a used knuckle with a hub already in it from someone on Ebay (or ideally on the forums!), or buy a brand new bearing from Subaru with the cartridge style bearings. Any advice, all?

[Hindsight]

I would go with a new bearing from Subaru. Never know what condition a used one will be in and you dont want this to spoil your fun again. Ensure you get all three seals from the dealer too. I got some aftermarket ones and they were really crappy so had to replace with OEM.

[Wayne Presley]

I know a guy that make a really good shifter :cool:

[07FIREBLADE]

Mechies mr2 shifter setup is really sweet you should look into that one.

[Pearldrummer7]

I would go with a new bearing from Subaru. Never know what condition a used one will be in and you dont want this to spoil your fun again. Ensure you get all three seals from the dealer too. I got some aftermarket ones and they were really crappy so had to replace with OEM.

I think I have to replace the whole knuckle. It's pretty beat up from banging around in there.


I know a guy that make a really good shifter :cool:


Mechies mr2 shifter setup is really sweet you should look into that one.

I actually already bought an MR2 shifter and am making my own linkage (because I'm broke and I like machining things). If it fails I'll cave and buy someone's :)

[Hindsight]

Ahh wow, it REALLY failed. Yeah, I'd buy a hub+spindle assembly on eBay then press in new bearings and seals. I actually had to do this when the idiot powder coater I used to use sandblasted the INSIDE of my spindles, where the bearing goes. Knuckle-heads (dad joke there for you).

Have fun making the shifter..... lots of pics and posts to see how various people have done it. I have plenty of pics up on how I did mine.

[Frank818]

Knuckles are cheap. Bearings are expensive when you fit in new ones, roll 0in with them and press them out to fit other new ones. 3 times. Don't ask out I know. lolll

Seals are tricky. Replacement part #s often don't match physically the OEM seals. Not sure if that's a problem, but keep a good eye on that.

[Pearldrummer7]

Knuckles are cheap. Bearings are expensive when you fit in new ones, roll 0in with them and press them out to fit other new ones. 3 times. Don't ask out I know. lolll

Seals are tricky. Replacement part #s often don't match physically the OEM seals. Not sure if that's a problem, but keep a good eye on that.
haha thrice pressed bearings, very nice.

Ahh wow, it REALLY failed. Yeah, I'd buy a hub+spindle assembly on eBay then press in new bearings and seals. I actually had to do this when the idiot powder coater I used to use sandblasted the INSIDE of my spindles, where the bearing goes. Knuckle-heads (dad joke there for you).

Have fun making the shifter..... lots of pics and posts to see how various people have done it. I have plenty of pics up on how I did mine.

Yes, it's super dead. I ordered a new one and am gonna pop in a new seal. I am mostly done with the shifter and was going to finish it this week but I am instead focusing on the bearing and maybe riding the bike this weekend :)

[Pearldrummer7]

Here's the before and after on the dyno, by the way. It's amazing what attaching your fuel line to the pump does to your power curve.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7419/27895499352_fe4a4f635e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv2J6o)

SO SMOOTH!

[Hindsight]

Nice... we have very similar power numbers.

[Pearldrummer7]

Nice... we have very similar power numbers.

The number is interesting to me. I made 297/329 on a Mustang dyno (EFI Logics) and only 225 or something on Moon's Mustang dyno (where my 818 was tuned). So I figure my 818 would be more like 350 on the EFI dyno, but who knows which one is "accurate"

[Sgt.Gator]

Good video.
Do you and your passenger have arm restraints????

Here's why:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfWjXzvVoL0

[Pearldrummer7]

Good video.
Do you and your passenger have arm restraints????

Here's why:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfWjXzvVoL0

No I don't. I didn't even know that was a thing, actually. Now that I see this it seems like a very good idea. Especially with how cheap they are. I'll be buying these shortly.

[Wayne Presley]

Here's the before and after on the dyno, by the way. It's amazing what attaching your fuel line to the pump does to your power curve.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7419/27895499352_fe4a4f635e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jv2J6o)

SO SMOOTH!


What was the smoothing number on the dyno sheet? The software will smooth out the chart. Most of the dyno sheets I post are a smoothing of "3"

[Pearldrummer7]

What was the smoothing number on the dyno sheet? The software will smooth out the chart. Most of the dyno sheets I post are a smoothing of "3"

If the "filter value" field is what I'm looking for, it's 30. I didn't think to have him print it with multiple filter values for comparison's sake. Either way, car runs way better now than last year.

[Frank818]

Hey Frank, if I remember you have long top center pipe for your exhaust, right? Does it smell inside the cockpit?

[Pearldrummer7]

Hey Frank, if I remember you have long top center pipe for your exhaust, right? Does it smell inside the cockpit?

Yes I do. The AJW exhaust. Pics are in my build thread(go to the first page to navigate it). It doesn't smell when I'm driving on track at all. In the garage it definitely does. I haven't ever driven around town yet... Hopefully soon I will.

[Frank818]

Yeah in the garage that's for sure, my clothes were smelling so much I had to wash them right away. lolll

Well let us know once you drive it around town, just in case it's different than on track.

Do you still have that long tip extending a few inches back of the bumper or you cut it shorter?

[Pearldrummer7]

Mine is flush-ish with the bumper. Only for ~3 days was it past the bumper. Just a slip-on catalytic converter. It's back on the shelf where it belongs ;)

[Frank818]

Cool. I plan on "flushing" it too, so your tour around town will certainly say if it can be done without smells.

[Pearldrummer7]

Cool. I plan on "flushing" it too, so your tour around town will certainly say if it can be done without smells.

I plan to do that after this weekend. Tracking the car Fri-Sun if the weather is even remotely decent (looks kinda iffy right now...) and then street mode for a few weeks!

[Pearldrummer7]

Car ran alright this weekend. Had a coolant hose pop off and spill water all over the track, then I pulled off the track to make sure I wasn't dumping anything bad and trashed the front bumper going off the pavement :(


It rained in the afternoon during one of my sessions. Pretty sketchy car in the wet, but still fun as hell. I also was co-running the track event and was coaching newbies. I had a LOT to do, plus fixing/making sure the car ran and driving it. It was an exhausting day! But a lot of fun. I love that car.



https://vimeo.com/174041843

[Hindsight]

Congrats on a succesful track outing! You must have been tired afterwards, with all that going on.

[Pearldrummer7]

Congrats on a succesful track outing! You must have been tired afterwards, with all that going on.

You bet! Thanks, Hindsight. It was great! Wish the weather would have cooperated so I could've stayed all weekend but it's better for my sleep schedule and how much I drink to not be at the track all weekend :)

[Frank818]

That's cool, looks violent when driving. :)

About the bumper, that's a bummer! (a "bumper" too loll) You know, I got a spare old style bumper if you need one. Would sell for very cheap, shipping would cost more anyway.

[Pearldrummer7]

That's cool, looks violent when driving. :)

About the bumper, that's a bummer! (a "bumper" too loll) You know, I got a spare old style bumper if you need one. Would sell for very cheap, shipping would cost more anyway.

I'm only a few hours from montreal, I could pick it up! I'd love to grab your old style body panels if you're not attached to them

[Frank818]

I thought of that too. Guess what, I'm on vacations from July 16th to Aug 7th included. If by any chance you could drive around during that time I should be pretty available. I might have just 4-5 days away on the second or thrid week but we could check for a good time. Otherwise any w-e year around is usually possible.

I am not attached to my 3 old style panels, the front bumper and both front fenders. The fenders have not had their bubble wrap removed at all. The bumper didn't have any anyway but the gorilla tape is still holding the headlight buckets.

It's a shame you couldn't drive with the 818, though.

[Pearldrummer7]

Drove her on the street yesterday. Just a little drive around back roads, maybe 10 miles. I drove half, my friend drove the other half. WOW it is fun/scary in the passenger seat. Way too fast for the street. Also too low. I DID smell like an exhaust after, Frank. It's fine with me, since I'm always dirty/working on stuff anyway, but I assume some people would have an issue with my unmuffled/uncatted exhaust on a more frequent basis.

[Frank818]

Oh crap oh crap oh crap oh crap. :(

[Hindsight]

Heh, sorry to let you down Frank818 but I drove my new exhaust with cat and rear-exit tail pipe and although the exhaust smells much CLEANER, there is still gobs of it coming into the cabin. Most of it seems to be coming through the engine humps which I haven't blocked off yet. Pearldrummer - do you have the engine hump block-offs installed? I'm wondering how much of a difference it will make. The area under the engine cover on the sides where it comes to meet the door isn't sealed off either so there WILL be fumes coming in now matter what.

[Pearldrummer7]

Heh, sorry to let you down Frank818 but I drove my new exhaust with cat and rear-exit tail pipe and although the exhaust smells much CLEANER, there is still gobs of it coming into the cabin. Most of it seems to be coming through the engine humps which I haven't blocked off yet. Pearldrummer - do you have the engine hump block-offs installed? I'm wondering how much of a difference it will make. The area under the engine cover on the sides where it comes to meet the door isn't sealed off either so there WILL be fumes coming in now matter what.

I don't have that blocked off right now. I don't think it'll make a huge difference though, maybe a little one. I have the worst example of a streetable car though. I've done basically nothing to help it be comfortable.

[C.Plavan]

Drove her on the street yesterday. Just a little drive around back roads, maybe 10 miles. I drove half, my friend drove the other half. WOW it is fun/scary in the passenger seat. Way too fast for the street. Also too low. I DID smell like an exhaust after, Frank. It's fine with me, since I'm always dirty/working on stuff anyway, but I assume some people would have an issue with my unmuffled/uncatted exhaust on a more frequent basis.

It would be smart to wear helmets with the R "Skull Crusher" bar right next to your head. Be careful.

[Pearldrummer7]

Did about 175 miles at NYST this weekend (and another 80 on the "new" bike I just bought). This thing is unreal. SO much fun. SUCH a quick little car, and quite the attention grabber. I think the only issue I had all weekend (besides missed shifts from that garbage shifter) was running out of gas (which was pretty funny).:
https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8578/28816432771_a1c462e33a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KUpKvM)

No fuel slosh with the Radium surge tank, and no gas gauge. It just...happened. Oops!

https://c2.staticflickr.com/9/8571/28276547993_f2140bb384_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/K5GGzx)


https://vimeo.com/178211260

And here's the new bike, a race prepped 07 ZX6R. It basically rides itself; so smooth:
https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8658/28873691135_e2bf52e89a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KZtdqX)

[FFRSpec72]

I think the K-Tuned shifter is a big POS what a joke for a shifter, give me a direct linkage shifter over these cable POS shifters any day.

[RetroRacing]

We did something different.... will let you know how it works out.

[Canadian818]

Do you have the supplied FFR shifter?

[Hindsight]

Awesome! Any video?

[Pearldrummer7]

I think the K-Tuned shifter is a big POS what a joke for a shifter, give me a direct linkage shifter over these cable POS shifters any day.


We did something different.... will let you know how it works out.


Do you have the supplied FFR shifter?

Yes, but I have an MR2 and am working on the bell crank as I get time.


Awesome! Any video?

One is uploaded in my last post!!! Check it out.

[Mitch Wright]

I am really happy with my MR2 shifter before the bell crank. The Zero DB set up feels great sitting still but haven't driven it yet.

[Pearldrummer7]

Drove the 818 to work today. What a crappy street car I've made. It's so awesome. I can't imagine loving a car more than this.

edit: yes, I wore my HANS and helmet, like always!

[Frank818]

That is awesome! Makes me want to drive mine ever earlier but I can't loll

You drove with a broken bumper?

[Hindsight]

Congrats Frank! That has to be a good feeling. I can't wait to be able to do the same.

[Pearldrummer7]

That is awesome! Makes me want to drive mine ever earlier but I can't loll

You drove with a broken bumper?

Yes sir. Still fast, still looks okay. Can't wait to arrange a weekend to get my shiney new one ;)


Congrats Frank! That has to be a good feeling. I can't wait to be able to do the same.

It feels so good. Still a lot to do, but now it's so much more rewarding